This book review is my personal opinion and not a paid book review of Harbor Me. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases if you buy through my links. Don’t worry… I only recommend products that I use and love!!
Harbor Me
What Would You Do If You Could Speak Freely?
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to have a place where you could truly say anything—your fears, secrets, or deepest dreams—without fear of judgment? In Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson, six middle schoolers are handed such a rare opportunity, and their journey together is nothing short of transformative.
The ARTT Room: A Safe Haven for Honest Conversations
It all begins when Haley’s teacher, Ms. Laverne, leads her and five classmates to an empty room, announcing it’s theirs for an hour each week. No adults, no rules—just a space to talk. For Haley, the idea feels awkward at first. Sure, she’s comfortable with her best friend, Holly, but what about the others? Esteban, Amari, Tiago, and Ashton are virtual strangers, and Haley harbors a secret too big to share: her dad is in prison.
But as the weeks go by, the ARTT room (short for “A Room to Talk”) becomes a safe harbor. Each student brings their unique story, shaped by the challenges they face: Esteban’s fears about his father’s deportation, Amari’s experiences with racism, Tiago’s struggle with language barriers, Ashton’s feelings of isolation as the only white boy in the group, and Haley’s own pain and loss. Together, they learn what it means to truly listen and be there for one another.
A Lesson in Empathy and Resilience
One of the most poignant moments comes when Ms. Laverne challenges the kids with a profound question:
“If the worst thing in the world happened, would you help to protect someone else? Would you let yourself be a harbor for someone who needs it?”
This question becomes the heart of the story, guiding the characters as they navigate their differences and find common ground. Through their conversations, they discover that harboring one another doesn’t mean having all the answers—it’s about being present, offering comfort, and standing together through life’s storms.
Why This Book Matters
Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical writing brings these characters to life with incredible depth and tenderness. Through their voices, she tackles big issues—racism, immigration, privilege, and loss—without oversimplifying or sugarcoating them. Instead, she creates a space for young readers to explore these realities with compassion and understanding.
The ARTT room is not just a metaphor but a model for what every classroom, community, or family could be: a place where honesty is met with empathy, and where vulnerability is a strength.
A Must-Read for All Ages
While Harbor Me is written for middle-grade readers, its themes resonate with people of all ages. As an adult, this story left me hopeful for the future, inspired by the courage and kindness of these young characters. Woodson reminds us that no matter our age, we all have the power to be a harbor for someone else.
So, would you let yourself be a harbor? Start by reading Harbor Me. This breathtaking gem will leave you thinking about its message long after you’ve turned the final page.
Why I Love This Book!
1. It Celebrates the Power of Friendship
The bonds formed in the ARTT room remind us that friendship is built on trust, vulnerability, and understanding. Watching these kids open up to one another and grow stronger together is both heartwarming and inspiring.
2. It Tackles Tough Topics with Grace
Woodson doesn’t shy away from real-world issues like racism, immigration, privilege, and loss. Instead, she presents them through the voices of her characters in a way that feels honest, relatable, and hopeful—making complex topics accessible for all readers.
3. It’s Deeply Emotional and Uplifting
From Haley’s quiet resilience to Esteban’s heartbreaking worries about his father, the story is packed with moments that will tug at your heartstrings. Yet, through the tears, the book offers hope and reminds you of the beauty of kindness and connection.
This book feels like a hug and a wake-up call all at once—it’s impossible not to love it!
My Favorite Quotes!
“If the worst thing in the world happened, would I help protect someone else? Would I let myself be a harbor for someone who needs it?”
“Back then, we still all believed in happy endings. None of us knew yet how many endings and beginnings one story could have.”
“Tragedy is strange. It takes away. And it gives too.”
“I didn’t know it would be people you barely knew becoming friends that harbored you. And dreams you didn’t even know you had—coming true.”
“My uncle is a musician and a storyteller. He says the hardest part of telling a story is finding the beginning.”
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